Kennebec County Soil & Water Conservation District

“to protect and enhance Maine's soil and water resources by providing educational programs, conservation information and technical assistance to municipalities, schools, landowners and residents of Kennebec County."

Household Hazardous Waste Disposal

by Josh Platt

October 28, 2002

            Have you ever wondered how to safely dispose of your household hazardous wastes? Or what exactly happens to your bags of trash when curbside pick-up collects them each week. I was recently cleaning and attempting to organize the basement of our home and came across several cans of old paint and varnish in various stages of decay. In addition to the cans, I found a bag of old batteries, most of which were corroded beyond recognition. All of these relics originated from previous owners of the house that were there long before us. After a little research, and a call to the Augusta Hatch Hill Facility, I found some answers.

            The Hatch Hill Facility is a regional landfill operated by the City of Augusta and services 8 contracting communities and approximately 40,000 people. According to Leslie Jones, Director of Solid Waste at Hatch Hill, the facility is a DEP approved landfill and has a 15-20 year capacity. Augusta has a recycling program in addition to the curbside trash bag pick-up. Once a month, recyclables are taken at curbside and separated into roll-off containers, which are transported to be shredded, reused or recycled by businesses that have that capacity.

            Each year, Hatch Hill runs a “bulky waste” spring cleanup which collects separated items of metal, wood, building debris etc. At other times of the year, people may purchase a Hatch Hill permit sticker from the City of Augusta or the Hatch Hill Scalehouse. With this permit comes a payment schedule for the required tipping fees of various recyclables or other disposable items.

            Earlier this fall, Augusta Public Works and the Kennebec County Council of Governments along with 7 participating communities held a Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day in September. This was my opportunity to properly dispose of my paint cans and batteries. Public Works put out a flyer for the event that is a good resource for anyone to have. In it is information on how to safely handle and transport hazardous items as well as lists of what these hazardous items are. Listed are some highlights from that safety list.

Ø      Tighten caps and lids, leaving materials in the original labeled container if possible.

Ø      Pack containers in sturdy, upright boxes and pad with newspaper.

Ø      Never mix chemicals

Ø      Place materials in a ventilated trunk or truck bed, prevent box from tipping and take to collection site.

If you have further questions about Augusta’s recycling program or handling household hazardous waste, contact the Hatch Hill Facility, Tuesday-Saturday, 8am-4pm at 626-2440.